DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR SELF-EXPANDING STENTS AND GRAFTS

摘要

Disclosed is, in combination, a radially, self-expanding endoprosthesis and an implanting device therefor. The endoprosthesis is used in the repair of diseased vessels, such as the aorta. The combination preferably includes (a) an elongated catheter having a distal end and an outer surface over which the endoprosthesis is placed, (b) a sheath releasably surrounding at least a portion of the endoprosthesis to hold the endoprosthesis on the catheter in a contracted state, and (c) a flexible, elongated release element cooperating with the first sheath, such that withdrawal of the release element releases the first sheath, which permits the endoprosthesis to expand.